The Story of Wavelength as Told by Its ‘Really Tired’ Founder.
By Dr. Jillian Kaufman, Wavelength Psychotherapy Founder
CHAPTER 1: Making a Change
The vision for Wavelength Psychotherapy didn't originate from a long period of contemplation or a moment of divine intervention. It wasn't a grand and poetic revelation—quite the opposite.
Initially, my career focused on advocating against sexual violence rather than engaging in clinical practice. Then, in December 2019, I made the difficult decision to step away. Departing from the nonprofit world left me feeling emotionally exposed and disheartened. I had cut myself off from a movement I believed in, the programming I was involved with, a supportive network of colleagues, and a caseload of clients with whom I had established profound connections.
Nonetheless, part of being a therapist is constantly being a beginner with each new patient and each new story.
I have always embraced new beginnings: there are boundless possibilities in uncharted territories where no decision about ‘what's next’ has yet been made.
CHAPTER 2: Starting My Own Psychotherapy Practice
In 2020, I embarked on establishing my own therapy practice. Following a conventional path like many others (so not my vibe), I secured a single office space and moved in with my many boxes of books. For the initial year, only a few people were aware of my presence up there (by the way, I'm still ‘up’ there), but I managed to stay busy enough to cover the rent. I worked tirelessly seeing patients back-to-back for ten to twelve hours a day, only pausing to shovel copious amounts of pretzels into my mouth.
In my rare moments of downtime, I researched business, finance, and marketing strategies. My classes on Freud and feminism did not cover solid business practice (there is a serious need for a non ‘Instagram-bullshit’ business class tailored explicitly for therapists). I sought guidance from friends who are accountants and lawyers, promising eternal gratitude in exchange for knowledge and expertise.
The point is, building this practice came with moments of crippling anxiety as I navigated (and still do) through burnout, child-like tantrums (apologies to my sweet, sweet husband), moments of self-doubt, a transition of identity, paying for many less-than-ideal logo designs, and a ton of late nights.
CHAPTER 3: Building the Wavelength Team
Over time, the demand for my clinical care skyrocketed (we’re talking 20 to 30 referrals in 48 hours). Recognizing the urgent need for mental health care, I didn’t want to turn people away. So, I made a daring leap (driven by blind faith or chutzpah) and invested in hiring additional therapists. Cue the rebrand and beginnings of Wavelength Psychotherapy…
This decision marked a significant shift for me. I had previously rebelled (we’re talking a ‘Katniss Everdeen’ type of rebellion) against the idea of entering the world of full-time private practice that so many graduating hopefuls strive for. I promised myself that if I embarked on this path, I would do it in a way that aligned with my principles and vision rather than adhering to a traditional therapist's career trajectory. I believed adhering to the conventional norms and expectations of the field would not benefit clients in our ever-evolving world.
It’s easy to lose sight of who you are as you strive to adapt, survive, fit in, and achieve. But amazing things happen when you focus on your strengths rather than trying to be something else.
Wavelength has experienced remarkable growth in just one year. We expanded from New Jersey to a downtown NYC location and assembled a talented and relatable team of therapists. Our offerings have expanded past my specialties of sexual trauma and men’s issues to a range of expertise. Traditional business (again, so not my vibe) advice suggests focusing on a niche, but we’ve grown through diversification.
We specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns, including:
anxiety
adolescent mental health
burnout
depression
navigating life transitions
men's issues therapy
narcissism
overcoming relationship challenges
exploring sex and relationships
building self-esteem and identity
stress management
therapy for young adults
therapy for executives
therapy for professionals
healing trauma
Like our specialties, Wavelength therapists come from many different career paths. I’ve hired former teachers, financers, and recruiters turned therapists. Our broad spectrum of professional experiences allows us to understand the multifaceted nature of each person's life journey.
CHAPTER 4: Wavelength’s Personalized Approach
Our diverse knowledge base enables us to meet the specific needs of our clients. We tailor our approach and interventions to suit each person’s unique journey: we do not have a one-size-fits-all mindset.
Wavelength therapists value self-reflection and personal growth as investments in their success and well-being. After a hectic day of navigating New York’s hustle culture ends, it's essential to have a self to return to.
I take immense pride in being woman-owned and operated. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to build this practice with my own two hands (shout out to J., the OG therapist, for sitting with me in the trenches of trial and error). I am privileged to witness Wavelength bringing lightness to a world that often feels burdened by darkness. Contributing to the holistic care of others is a responsibility I hold dear and do not take for granted.
Wavelength Psychotherapy wasn’t born from a grand epiphany or childhood dream; it was shaped by a commitment to self-discovery and a dedication to meeting humanity's unique needs in an ever-changing world.
We evolve by walking through fear, but some don't realize they can choose this path. They may miss out on the incredible growth and self-discovery it can lead to.
So, let’s do this together…
